John Sutton closes in on 300 NRL games, could play on in season 2019

IF the stars align, John Sutton will reach 300 NRL games for South Sydney next year — and he is open to even going around again in 2019.

John Sutton could play his 300th NRL game in season 2018.

IF the stars align, John Sutton will reach 300 NRL games for South Sydney in round 18 against the Bulldogs next year.

And if Sutton continues to feel the way he does coming towards the end of next season, the Souths idol will not rule out trying to punch out a remarkable 16th season in 2019.

Already the most capped player in the club’s long history with 283 games, Sutton’s one-year extension signed at the end of the season will give him a shot at the magical 300 mark.

Coach Anthony Seibold has designed a training program to keep Sutton fresh, and while he was not guaranteed to punch out 80 minutes every week next year, “I do know when Sutto is fit and healthy he’s in our best 17 every week’’.

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John Sutton during Rabbitohs training. pic John Grainger

Sutton has always ruled out a Super League swan song because he would dread the English winters.

Born and bred in Souths heartland, Sutton would also never let his emotional attachment to the club interfere with his decision to eventually pull the pin.

“If I wasn’t pulling my weight around here I’d definitely give it up, and wouldn’t want to let anyone down in the team and especially the club,’’ Sutton told The Saturday Telegraph.

“I don’t want to be that player trying to play on when he’s not doing anything for the side.

“I played every game last season, and I can’t remember the last time I did that. I feel good. I just have to make sure I’m putting in the performances on the field next year, and as long as I do that I’m happy.’’

Sutton is keen to build on his left-side combination with five-eighth Cody Walker, with Angus Crichton — a prized target for rivals Cronulla and the Sydney Roosters — locking down the backrow spot on the right.

The man who lifted the premiership trophy in 2014 said life under the new coach had been good, he was direct and the players continued to learn about what he wanted to implement at the club.

John Sutton could play his 300th NRL game in season 2018.

Seibold said he had worked around some of the elite players in the game, especially when an assistant at the Melbourne Storm and Queensland Origin side, and Sutton was in the same class when it came to his ‘’understanding of the game’’.

“Sutto’s understanding and knowledge of the game is elite, and physically he’s got himself into really good condition,’’ Seibold said.

“We’ve managed his program effectively and he’s in good shape.

“We’ll go into next season with an open mind. We want to use his versatility, skill level and knowledge, along with Greg (Inglis) and Sam (Burgess), the three leaders at this club.

“Sutto is in a good spot.’’

Originally published as John Sutton closes in on 300 NRL games, could play on in season 2019